Dogs moving from house with backyard to Aprtment. 1st or 2nd floor?

Dogs moving from house with backyard to Apartment. 1st or 2nd floor?

Due to a sudden divorce, I am taking both our dogs with me. I personally beleive I have the strongest bond with them, and emotionally/physically I would prefer to be with them rather than my upcoming ex husband. I am 27 years old, my oldest dog is a Chorkie, and she is 7 years old and my younger dog is a PitBull Chow-Chow mix (weird i know) is 6 and he's about 65 pounds. So finding an apartment in itself is difficult due to weight limits and such.

Anyways, they both were adopted and raised with my husband and I, our first dog the chorkie spent maybe 8 months in our first apartment, and then when we moved into our home with a fenced in backyard we got our bigger dog. He has never lived in an apartment before. He also..is a bit reactive..even with people crossing the street right now..and even on walks. So my concern with a first floor is his reactivity..especially when I'm not home and the blinds may be open. The 2nd floor issue is that the same dog had TPLO surgery on his knee a couple years ago. He's doing great, but the 2nd floor worries me due to the stairs. I know I'll only be in these apartments for maybe 18 months. But I'm really torn on which is actually going to be more comfortable for my dogs physically and mentally.

I like the idea of a first floor for easier access outdoors and no stairs, and not having to worry about my dogs running around or stomping. However, being able to leave the blinds open on the second floor and even the balcony door open for fresh air for them is SUCH a game changer. (Plus after factory as a women) I'm just curious about anyone else's experiences or thoughts? TIA!